Posts by Hillcrest Staff
Normal Teenage Behavior vs Mental Health Disorder
Adolescence is a period of immense change. Between school pressures, shifting friendships, new independence, and rapid physical development, it’s no surprise that teenagers often experience mood swings and behavior shifts. Parents and caregivers may find themselves wondering: Is this just normal teenage behavior, or is it a sign of something more serious? This question can…
Read MoreNegative Effects of Older Children Sleeping with Parents
Co-sleeping—or allowing children to sleep in the same bed as their parents—is common in early childhood. Many families practice it for bonding, comfort, or convenience. However, when co-sleeping continues into later childhood or adolescence, it can create challenges that affect both children and parents. While younger children may benefit from the sense of security co-sleeping…
Read MoreSchool Stress: Understanding School Stress for Teens
For many teenagers, school is more than just a place to learn—it’s where they spend most of their waking hours, form friendships, face challenges, and begin preparing for the future. While academics and extracurriculars can be exciting, they can also bring an overwhelming amount of school stress. From homework deadlines and tests to social pressure…
Read MoreThe Effect of Teen Hormones on Adolescent Emotions
Adolescence is often described as a rollercoaster—and for good reason. Teenagers experience rapid physical, emotional, and social changes, many of which are fueled by hormonal shifts. Parents may notice their teen’s moods changing quickly or wonder why emotions seem so intense and unpredictable. Understanding the effect of teen hormones on adolescent emotions can help parents,…
Read MoreWhy Are Teenage Girls So Mean?
If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Why are teenage girls so mean?”—you’re not alone. Parents, teachers, and even teens themselves often struggle with the intensity of girl-to-girl conflict during adolescence. From gossip and exclusion to sharp words and social media drama, the emotional world of teenage girls can feel overwhelming. But beneath the surface, “mean girl”…
Read MoreHandling Back-to-School Anxiety: For Parents
Back-to-school season can feel like an emotional rollercoaster for parents and teens alike. While the first day of school is often pictured as exciting and full of fresh opportunities, for many families it’s also a time marked by worry, uncertainty, and heightened stress. These feelings—especially when they’re intense or persistent—fall under what’s often called back-to-school…
Read MoreTeen Angst: Understanding Signs and Symptoms
If you’re a parent, teacher, or someone who works closely with adolescents, you’ve probably encountered what’s often referred to as teen angst—that unique combination of moodiness, rebellion, emotional outbursts, and withdrawal that seems to come with the territory of adolescence. But how do you know when it’s just normal growing pains—and when it’s something more?…
Read MoreDifferent Types of Parenting Styles: Which Fits You Best?
Every parent wants to raise a happy, healthy, and responsible child—but the how of parenting can vary greatly from one family to another. These differences are often rooted in what experts call parenting styles, and understanding yours can be a powerful tool for improving communication, resolving conflict, and helping your teen thrive—especially during challenging times.…
Read MoreDealing With Difficult Teenage Daughters
Raising a teenage daughter can sometimes feel like navigating an emotional minefield. One moment she’s sweet and smiling—then suddenly distant, angry, or in tears. If you’ve found yourself asking, “Why is my daughter so difficult lately?”, you’re not alone. The teenage years are marked by rapid brain development, emotional intensity, and a deep desire for…
Read MoreWhy Do Teenagers Sleep So Much?
If you’ve ever tried to wake up a teenager before noon on the weekend, you’re not alone—and you’ve probably wondered: Why do teenagers sleep so much? Is it laziness, defiance, or something deeper? It turns out, there’s a very real biological and psychological reason behind teens’ sleep habits. During adolescence, the body and brain go…
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